News From Nigeria
Influential Northern politicians on Sunday described All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential hopeful, Senator Godswill Akpabio as a consummate administrator, visionary leader, thoroughbred democrat and prudent manager of human and material resources.
‘’The presidential contest is not a dinner party. It is rough and costly. However, Senator Godswill Akpabio will be overwhelmingly elected by the APC delegates to be the ruling party’s presidential candidate’’.
Leader of Northern People’s Forum (NPF), Alhaji Gambo Aminu, made the views of the Northern leaders known in a press statement issued Sunday morning in Sokoto.
‘’Northerners are more disposed to Akpabio because of his antecedents’’
The leaders agreed to work for the election of Akpabio as the country’s president in 2023’’
‘’The dream of a greater Nigeria will be realised with an Akpabio Presidency. There will also be fiscal discipline, economic growth, sustainable supply of petroleum products everywhere in Nigeria, spending on the right economic priorities, encouragement of private sector investment and provision of basic services’’
The key players in the politics of the North-West, North-East and North-Central praised Akpabio to high heavens for his sterling leadership qualities, devotion to service to the people and the fatherland, commitment to national unity, social stability and economic development.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a credible politician. He is focused and down to earth’’
The leaders extolled the former Akwa Ibom State governor for the dividends of democracy in the Niger Delta, his resounding achievements in education, health, agriculture, industry, public works, utilities, transport, poverty alleviation and other sectors of service delivery.
They also acknowledged Akpabio’s positive contribution to peace and development in the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
The statement highlighted Akpabio’s intellectual capacity, vision, organizational skills, administrative techniques and commitment to the greatness of Nigeria.
Specifically, the northern politicians applauded Akpabio for enhancing the political empowerment of women and youths, carrying out the business of governance in an open, participatory and transparent atmosphere and improving the standard of living of the people.
My dear Compatriots, determined to pay the debt of gratitude I owe our nation for the opportunities to serve in high offices of public trust; determined to let our nation drink from the deep well of experience acquired in these offices, I, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, with great humility, hereby, submit myself for our kind consideration as your next President.
“I pay tribute to President Muhammadu Buhari for the patriotic work he has done as our President. He has given hope and direction to governance and fought corruption with uncompromising zeal. He has touched lives and empowered people, he has made great advances in agriculture, human capital development, and indeed, in all sectors of our economy.
“He has uplifted the integrity of the Nigerian nation. A lot can be said about all his amazing successes and achievements, but suffice it to say that I have come to perfect his marvelous works. Absolute perfection belongs neither to man nor angels but to God alone. The labours of our dear President Buhari and our past leaders shall never be in vain. In line with this expectation in our National Anthem, I have come to build based on their developmental strides; to serve our country with heart and might — serve her as a nation bound in freedom, peace and unity, where the dividends of democracy shall be guaranteed.
“I have come with these key items on my agenda: to secure lives and properties; to make unity the touchstone of our nationhood; and to invigorate our economy, prosper our citizenry and promote democracy.
“In 2007, I was elected the Governor of a pedestrian state, languishing on the margins of our national life. A couple of
years later, a European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, visited the State and described what he saw, in amazement, as “transformation extraordinaire.”
“He inadvertently became the originator of the swansong “Uncommon Transformation” which other amazed visitors and residents of the state still echo till now. In Eight years of Uncommon Transformation, we gave the State one of the best road networks in the country (the roads built by us 14 years ago are still pot-hole free).
“We gave the State free and compulsory education for all children up to Senior Secondary School; we gave the state free medical treatment for pregnant women and for babies up to the age of five; we delivered to the State world-class facilities like the International Airport, Tropicana Entertainment Centre, E-Library, Ibom Specialty Hospital (rated as one of the best in Africa), Africa’s first-ever underground pipe-jacking drainage system, Ibom Power Plant, Akwa Ibom State University, the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and many other projects too numerous to mention.
“We did so much that then serving Presidents and past country leaders wondered where we got money from to do all that we did. The trick was in our vision, strategic planning, commitment and honest implementation.
“Together we can do more than this for Nigeria. At the Nile Valley in Egypt, people of different colours, languages, religions and ethnicity cohabited peacefully and gave the world its first modern civilisation. We are a reflection of that alluvial Nile Valley and together we can reinvigorate peace, unity and development and become the envy of the world.
“This is why I am seeking to be your President. I have done it before as Governor; my office pursued national unity with great zeal. I sent both Christians and Muslims on pilgrimages. The office reflected Federal Character because of my abiding faith in Nigeria and its diversity. Not only did we win uncountable awards and honours, and commendations from institutions like the United States Congress, the Nigeria Defence Academy, foreign countries, prestigious institutions of higher learning, prominent religious and ethnic organizations; even Wikileaks, referenced myself as a leader to watch due to my infrastructural revolution and efforts in industrial development.
“We took that pedestrian State out of the margins of our national life and made it a cynosure of global interest. It attracted global icons such as the President of the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Ivory Coast; the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis; one-time USA presidential aspirant, the Rev Jesse Jackson; diplomats; global sports icons like Don King and Evander Holyfield; and a host of others. I am offering my humble self for service to our dear Nation because I believe that together we can make Nigeria the cynosure of global interest and an African economic lion. There is nothing the Asian tigers have, in terms of human and material resources that we do not have.
“As a Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs, we have completed projects abandoned for decades and thought to be beyond salvage. We have had key projects commissioned by Mr President. This uncommon feat was achieved through the support of Mr President. We have effectively repositioned NDDC to meet its core mandate. As a first time Senator, after my work as Governor, my distinguished colleagues found me worthy and elected me as their Minority Leader. This was in recognition of the great equity and value I brought to the Senate. I pay respect to that Hallowed Chamber for that honour. I praise God for His grace.
“The road to Governorship of Akwa Ibom State was marked by immense value-added as the Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Commissioner for Lands and Housing, and Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources. In Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, I left a record in conflict resolution and raised the bar of respect and dignity for the traditional institution in Nigeria, and as your President, we shall give the traditional institution a voice in the functionality and maintenance of peace in our dear country.
“In Lands and Housing, we undertook land reclamation and estate development. In Petroleum and Natural Resources, we connected with Niger Delta issues and maintained peace among the youth and assisted in bringing militancy to an end in the Niger Delta Region. All these experiences paid off when I became the Governor, which led to this commendation by our eminent patriot and father of this democracy, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, when he visited the State:
“The type of development we are seeing in Akwa Ibom State if all of us in this country follow suit… there will be peace in this country and there will be no need for any misgivings and terrorism.”
“So I declare today conscious that this declaration has raised the bar of hope for all Nigerians, poor or rich. Christian or Muslim. I was raised by a poor, loving mother, who lost her beloved husband six months after my birth. She taught me that life is not about where you came from, but where you are going.”
“After primary school, I missed a year of schooling because she could not afford my school fees. Despite this, my love for education drove me to sneak into a nearby Secondary School. One day the security of the school chased me through the forest and I fell on a tree trunk and severely injured my leg. That scar left behind a constant reminder that I should always drive children to school, drive people to development, drive goodwill in all my endeavours and be fair to all.
“It is said that a good heart is the key to an open door; I eventually gained admission to Federal Government College, Port Harcourt. This premier Unity school imbued in me my inflexible faith in the Nigerian Nation and connected me to brothers and sisters in all nooks and crannies of Nigeria. Therefore, my declaration is a trumpet call for unity and action.
“May the Fulanis, the Hausas and the Tivs arise to this call with deeper faith in the Nigerian mission. May the Yorubas, the Igbos and the Ijaws awake to this call with stronger hope for a greater country. May the Efiks, the Ibibios, the Annangs the Kanuris, and indeed, all other ethnic groups in Nigeria hear this call and shout with joy that the clouds of national pains will soon bring forth showers of national gains.
“Fellow Nigerians, when the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Terrence McCulley, visited Akwa Ibom State he noted prophetically, “I have been to Akwa Ibom for the first time, but I have to say that with what I have seen, the future of Nigeria is in Akwa Ibom State.
“The future of the Uncommon Transformation of Nigeria; The future of making this country an African showpiece; That future that McCulley spoke of, is my dream Nigeria. I share this dream with you because the future is the property of those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Together we will overcome every challenge.
“Together we will defeat every Goliath. Together we will turn our mourning into dancing again. Let God’s will be done in 2023. God bless our great country.”
A Statement of intent to contest for the Presidency of Nigeria by Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON
My dear Compatriots, determined to pay the debt of gratitude I owe our nation for the opportunities to serve in high offices of public trust; determined to let our nation drink from the deep well of experience acquired in these offices, I, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, with great humility, hereby, submit myself for our kind consideration as your next President.
“I pay tribute to President Muhammadu Buhari for the patriotic work he has done as our President. He has given hope and direction to governance and fought corruption with uncompromising zeal. He has touched lives and empowered people, he has made great advances in agriculture, human capital development, and indeed, in all sectors of our economy.
“He has uplifted the integrity of the Nigerian nation. A lot can be said about all his amazing successes and achievements, but suffice it to say that I have come to perfect his marvelous works. Absolute perfection belongs neither to man nor angels but to God alone. The labours of our dear President Buhari and our past leaders shall never be in vain. In line with this expectation in our National Anthem, I have come to build based on their developmental strides; to serve our country with heart and might — serve her as a nation bound in freedom, peace and unity, where the dividends of democracy shall be guaranteed.
“I have come with these key items on my agenda: to secure lives and properties; to make unity the touchstone of our nationhood; and to invigorate our economy, prosper our citizenry and promote democracy.
“In 2007, I was elected the Governor of a pedestrian state, languishing on the margins of our national life. A couple of
years later, a European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, visited the State and described what he saw, in amazement, as “transformation extraordinaire.”
“He inadvertently became the originator of the swansong “Uncommon Transformation” which other amazed visitors and residents of the state still echo till now. In Eight years of Uncommon Transformation, we gave the State one of the best road networks in the country (the roads built by us 14 years ago are still pot-hole free).
“We gave the State free and compulsory education for all children up to Senior Secondary School; we gave the state free medical treatment for pregnant women and for babies up to the age of five; we delivered to the State world-class facilities like the International Airport, Tropicana Entertainment Centre, E-Library, Ibom Specialty Hospital (rated as one of the best in Africa), Africa’s first-ever underground pipe-jacking drainage system, Ibom Power Plant, Akwa Ibom State University, the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and many other projects too numerous to mention.
“We did so much that then serving Presidents and past country leaders wondered where we got money from to do all that we did. The trick was in our vision, strategic planning, commitment and honest implementation.
“Together we can do more than this for Nigeria. At the Nile Valley in Egypt, people of different colours, languages, religions and ethnicity cohabited peacefully and gave the world its first modern civilisation. We are a reflection of that alluvial Nile Valley and together we can reinvigorate peace, unity and development and become the envy of the world.
“This is why I am seeking to be your President. I have done it before as Governor; my office pursued national unity with great zeal. I sent both Christians and Muslims on pilgrimages. The office reflected Federal Character because of my abiding faith in Nigeria and its diversity. Not only did we win uncountable awards and honours, and commendations from institutions like the United States Congress, the Nigeria Defence Academy, foreign countries, prestigious institutions of higher learning, prominent religious and ethnic organizations; even Wikileaks, referenced myself as a leader to watch due to my infrastructural revolution and efforts in industrial development.
“We took that pedestrian State out of the margins of our national life and made it a cynosure of global interest. It attracted global icons such as the President of the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Ivory Coast; the Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis; one-time USA presidential aspirant, the Rev Jesse Jackson; diplomats; global sports icons like Don King and Evander Holyfield; and a host of others. I am offering my humble self for service to our dear Nation because I believe that together we can make Nigeria the cynosure of global interest and an African economic lion. There is nothing the Asian tigers have, in terms of human and material resources that we do not have.
“As a Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs, we have completed projects abandoned for decades and thought to be beyond salvage. We have had key projects commissioned by Mr President. This uncommon feat was achieved through the support of Mr President. We have effectively repositioned NDDC to meet its core mandate. As a first time Senator, after my work as Governor, my distinguished colleagues found me worthy and elected me as their Minority Leader. This was in recognition of the great equity and value I brought to the Senate. I pay respect to that Hallowed Chamber for that honour. I praise God for His grace.
“The road to Governorship of Akwa Ibom State was marked by immense value-added as the Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Commissioner for Lands and Housing, and Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources. In Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, I left a record in conflict resolution and raised the bar of respect and dignity for the traditional institution in Nigeria, and as your President, we shall give the traditional institution a voice in the functionality and maintenance of peace in our dear country.
“In Lands and Housing, we undertook land reclamation and estate development. In Petroleum and Natural Resources, we connected with Niger Delta issues and maintained peace among the youth and assisted in bringing militancy to an end in the Niger Delta Region. All these experiences paid off when I became the Governor, which led to this commendation by our eminent patriot and father of this democracy, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, when he visited the State:
“The type of development we are seeing in Akwa Ibom State if all of us in this country follow suit… there will be peace in this country and there will be no need for any misgivings and terrorism.”
“So I declare today conscious that this declaration has raised the bar of hope for all Nigerians, poor or rich. Christian or Muslim. I was raised by a poor, loving mother, who lost her beloved husband six months after my birth. She taught me that life is not about where you came from, but where you are going.”
“After primary school, I missed a year of schooling because she could not afford my school fees. Despite this, my love for education drove me to sneak into a nearby Secondary School. One day the security of the school chased me through the forest and I fell on a tree trunk and severely injured my leg. That scar left behind a constant reminder that I should always drive children to school, drive people to development, drive goodwill in all my endeavours and be fair to all.
“It is said that a good heart is the key to an open door; I eventually gained admission to Federal Government College, Port Harcourt. This premier Unity school imbued in me my inflexible faith in the Nigerian Nation and connected me to brothers and sisters in all nooks and crannies of Nigeria. Therefore, my declaration is a trumpet call for unity and action.
“May the Fulanis, the Hausas and the Tivs arise to this call with deeper faith in the Nigerian mission. May the Yorubas, the Igbos and the Ijaws awake to this call with stronger hope for a greater country. May the Efiks, the Ibibios, the Annangs the Kanuris, and indeed, all other ethnic groups in Nigeria hear this call and shout with joy that the clouds of national pains will soon bring forth showers of national gains.
“Fellow Nigerians, when the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Terrence McCulley, visited Akwa Ibom State he noted prophetically, “I have been to Akwa Ibom for the first time, but I have to say that with what I have seen, the future of Nigeria is in Akwa Ibom State.
“The future of the Uncommon Transformation of Nigeria; The future of making this country an African showpiece; That future that McCulley spoke of, is my dream Nigeria. I share this dream with you because the future is the property of those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Together we will overcome every challenge.
“Together we will defeat every Goliath. Together we will turn our mourning into dancing again. Let God’s will be done in 2023. God bless our great country.”
A Yoruba body, South-West Renewal Movement (SWRM), on Sunday threw a surprise by endorsing All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential hopeful, Senator Godswill Akpabio for the 2023 presidency.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio has remained the darling of the South-West people. He is a purposeful leader in Nigeria, a veritable model and always thirsty for legacies’’.
.The group said it would mobilize APC delegates in the South-West geo-political zone to support Akpabio in the ruling party’s presidential primaries.
At a three-hour long meeting in Akure, Ondo State to finalize their strategy for the APC presidential primaries, the group applauded Akpabio for offering to serve the country at the highest pedestal.
Soft-spoken APC chieftain and chairman of SWRM, Chief Olusola Adebamgbe said at the meeting attended by prominent APC leaders from Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Ekiti, Osun and Ondo that notable South-West politicians, business tycoons and traditional rulers were working with politicians from other geo-political zones to make Akpabio the country’s next president.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is the man who can guarantee national peace and unity when elected president in 2023’’
The development conscious group commended the front runner in the race for the presidency in 2023 for making a difference in Akwa Ibom State, National Assembly and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
The group underscored Akpabio’s experience, antecedent, credibility and charisma.
It emphasized Akpabio’s robust vision for Nigeria, the feats recorded in the Niger Delta region and the judicious utilization of human and natural resources in Akwa Ibom State.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio has the potential of becoming the best president. He will encourage foreign investment, boost economic growth, create more jobs, deal with insecurity, pursue policies and principles of women empowerment, provide the enabling environment for the emergence of industries and shift resources to the state governments for positive efforts in roads, health, water and educational infrastructure’.
The group also emphasized Akpabioi’s solid network of allies that he has and the followership he is attracting based on his performance and leadership style.
The South-West group is backing Akpabio for the 2023 presidency.
Lagos Chief, Babatunde Olorogun-Etti, on Monday, described the action of the leader of pan Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo as regrettable and a betrayal of All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential hopeful, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and the South-West geo-political zone.
‘’Chief Ayo Adebanjo is a disgrace to the Yoruba race. His utterances and attitude are geared towards causing disunity in Yoruba land’’ Olorogun-Etti said.
In a statement in Lagos Island Ward E3, Olorogun-Etti accused Adebanjo of fanning embers of discord in the region, cutting a very bad image for South-West and using Afenifere for self-promotion.
‘’What is Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s contribution towards Yoruba’s progress and economy? Why is he pulling a Yoruba man down? The Afenifere leader belongs to a faction that wants to destroy the Yoruba nation. His commitment is not to the unity and development of Yoruba but an interest outside the region’’.
Olorogun-Etti, who is the leader of Eko United, a leading political group in Lagos State described Adebanjo’s comment on the 2023 presidency as shocking, repulsive, and ugly.
He described Tinubu as a man of character, competence and credibility.
‘’Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a true leader of democracy, a role model, a suave politician, a visionary leader, bridge builder and man of impeccable credentials. We are blessed to have him in the South-West’’
He eulogized the former Lagos State governor for his competence, courage and the constancy in his conviction and political choices.
‘’Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is an asset to Nigeria. He has a track record of success’’
The Lagos APC leader urged South west politicians and leaders to project the agenda of the region to counter the negative picture being presented by Adebanjo.
‘’The way forward for the country is to make Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu president in 2023’
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Nigeria’s leading aluminium and glass service provider and a member of the Julius Berger Plc Group, Abumet, has been presented with the ISO 9001: 2015 Certification.
The ISO 9001:2015 certificate, which was presented to the company on Wednesday the 27th of April, 2022, is the international gold standard for business practices and quality management, and is only obtainable through thorough and comprehensive technical audits. The audit was carried out by DQS Management Systems Solutions, a globally renowned and leading quality management systems (QMS) certification body reputed for premium international standard benchmarking, technical impartiality, competence, responsibility, openness, and impeccable ethical business practices.
As an initiative of the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO), one of the key philosophies of ISO Certifications is to provide an international model that will broadly improve every aspect of businesses and organisations worldwide, with a view to enhance customer satisfaction and guarantee a proper return on investment for business stakeholders. The ISO 9001:2015 is especially focused on businesses and organisations’ ability to withstand a wide range of business risks through effective quality management systems.
In an interview, after handing over the certificate to Abumet, the Country Director, DQS Nigeria, Mr. Lawrence Ogudu expressed DQS’ satisfaction with the quality systems that Abumet has in place to meet customers’ requirements. He explained that, “the ISO 9001: 2015 is at the height of management systems because it puts in place the superstructure for every management system, and this certification is for Abumet a clear statement that it has implemented a management system to ensure that it can deliver quality to its customers consistently”.
Lawrence Ogudu further stated that “Abumet has put in place an effective and efficient process which enables it to determine customers’ requirements”, adding that “Abumet possesses the knowhow, the infrastructure, and the competent personnel required to consistently fulfil these requirements at all times. Of course, business is about meeting customers’ requirements, and when customers are satisfied, there is trust, which is what quality is all about”.
On his part, Abumet’s General Manager, Mr. Alexander Hausner described the feat as, “a big milestone in terms of improvement to the entire company, in every single department, coordinating interfaces and the improvement of quality”. Hausner further said that: “…in terms of customer services, the ISO 9001 not only demonstrates our ability but is also an excellent guideline for constant improvement of customer satisfaction regarding quality and reliability”.
Abumet’s General Manager ascribed their success to a dedicated staff and committed management team whose collaborative efforts brought about the milestone achievement. In his words, “…the responsibility for the success belongs to the entire company, we all worked hard to get the certification, and every personnel of the company followed the rules of the ISO 9001 accordingly. Therefore, as I said, it is a big success for the entire company and not only the management. For every single member of Abumet, this is a big success and we are all very proud of the achievement”.
Commenting on the ISO certification of Abumet, Engr. Emeka Ejike, who is the Corporate Quality Manager for the Julius Berger Group, explained that the company’s excitement about this certification is not limited to the certificate itself, but summed up in the customer satisfaction that comes along with it. According to Emeka, “Abumet in its 31 years of operation has had outstandingly dynamic management processes in place to guarantee its commitment to the satisfaction of its clients. The ISO certification further consolidates this commitment, as well as reinforces the company’s assurance of consistency in superior performance”.
Narrating the efforts towards the certification Emeka Ejike said, “the journey to this laudable achievement began about 14 months ago when we applied for the certification and had to reorganise the processes and systems at various levels of the organisation, which include the management process, documentation, product realisation, business and operational support, management system maintenance and improvement processes, etcetera”. Emeka added that “…with this strategic certification, Abumet, as a dynamic offspring of the iconic Julius Berger brand, shall continue to maintain the Julius Berger group’s corporate tradition of excellence and progressively build on what it has achieved”.
Abumet Nigeria Ltd is an experienced, full-service aluminium and glass provider with the resources to deliver a range of building construction solutions. It holds a corporate culture of quality, integrity, innovation, and productive collaborations even as it remains ever customer-focused. The company has the vision to be the innovative market leader for aluminium and glass solutions for the West African market.
Diaspora Woman leader, Tinubu Support Organisation and Matron, Asiwaju Volunteers Groups, Baroness Tinuke Davies-Kesington on Friday complained about the perceived marginalization of women in Nigeria, saying the women are not having a fair deal in the country’s politics.
‘’ I will say first, that women, being the majority in the population, are not adequately represented in Politics in Nigeria, especially when we look at the important roles that women fulfill in society at large. Yet women have significant influence in politics, as the electorate, as well as in areas such as campaigning and fundraising. Nigerian women, regardless of ethnic and tribal background, are for the most part entrepreneurs. From the woman in the market, to the multi million naira event planner, entrepreneurialism is what defines the Nigerian woman’’.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos, Davies Kessington stated that the cry of marginalization of women in Nigeria’s politics underscored the imperative of women seeing politics as a calling and service to nation and the people.
‘’To be direct, Women in Nigeria have not involved themselves more fully in politics. It is seen as a game for men, seeking power, which of course is a wrong perspective to have, but nevertheless, this is how politics is viewed. Nigerian women focus their energies on being entrepreneurs rather than politics. This is purely a pragmatic choice, as survival and providing for one’s family comes first. Women in Nigeria must see politics as a calling for those who wish to serve their fellow citizens and make life better’’.
Davies-Kessington, a strong supporter of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, maintained that no matter the setback suffered by the pro-gender bill aimed at increasing women’s participation in governance and representation, the future of women in Nigeria is bright.
‘’I know that a large number of women, who have interest in Politics, would have been discouraged, and disheartened by what happened with the bill in March 2022. Those who voted against increased representation of women in politics, probably even hoped for women to be discouraged. However, I want women in Nigeria to really think. We do not need permission to engage in politics in Nigeria. The goal of politics is to solve existential problems. Women have a large population, and we therefore constitute a large proportion of the electorate. We are the ones that vote politicians into power. We already have the numbers. We just need to organise. We do not need permission. In fact, I think that if we engage in politics, with true enthusiasm, and actively seek to solve the numerous problems in Nigeria that affect us as women, and consequently families, then more qualified and capable women will become an integral part of politics. That would be a good thing’’
She spoke on culture, religion and the need to balance the scheme of things in Nigeria
‘’Women, in Nigeria can equate the balance. Nigerian women function in very high pressure environments. We are mothers, business owners, wives, home managers. We take care of family, and extended family, we negotiate, we teach, we counsel. There is so much that we do as women. And yet, we are able to function at the highest levels, and this is done through balancing all that we do. We do this naturally, and in the field of politics, women can bring a healthy balance. Women are able to see the best way to manage details, and see how to resolve issues through collaboration. Nigerian women will always bring balance, as we naturally collaborate, and seek synergy, rather than think in terms of competition, or power. That is how many men see things, and that is what works for them. The balance will come in the grand scheme of things in Nigeria, when women move forward with confidence, and show the attributes we have that will benefit the political system in Nigeria’’.
The Bola Tinubu’s campaigner stated that the women should not be taken for granted any longer.
‘’Nigeria is a democratic country. Protest and dissenting voices have a right to be heard, especially where there is hurt, anger, or discontent. It must be encouraged. Women in Nigeria need to think deeply. We have numbers and influence over the electorate. We only need to organize, aggregate our numbers, and put forward or support those representatives for electoral positions that support women, and the issues that are important to them. There is no rule that says that these representatives have to be men. The political field is also open to women. Political positions are open to Nigerian women. All it takes is proper organisation’’.
She suggested that current moves to increase women participation in politics should include strategy and collaboration.
‘’I am working with capable women, who are actively involved in politics in Nigeria. I am mentoring young women who are interested in engaging in politics. I am working directly with very competent men, in Nigeria, politicians who advocate and support increased women’s participation in the political system in Nigeria. I am working with a number of organizations who are devising procedures and policies that will encourage more female engagement in politics at both the local and national levels in Nigeria. There is a lot of work I am doing, but I am not doing it alone. It is only through strategy, and collaboration, that Nigerian women can get more involved, and actually do the real work that politics entails’’.
She harped on the need for appropriate organization.
‘’A large majority of Nigerian women are entrepreneurs. We are natural capitalists. The most important thing that Nigerian women can do, in the field of politics, is to organise. Once organised, we as women, can then focus directly on the issues at hand. Money in politics is just one aspect of the electoral process, as countless aspirants and would be politicians in Nigeria have found out. There is more to it, and Nigerian women know this. Money is just one aspect. Women being organised in Nigeria, is more powerful than money, or a political process that has been monetised’’.
She stated that the main challenges before the current administration were economy and insecurity.
‘’Security is a core issue for Nigeria. Everyone is affected, and the very viability of Nigeria as a country and a functional democracy, hangs in the balance because of security, or rather the lack of it. Terrorism, robbery and murder have no place in a country that boasts such deep, ancient cultures, and highly intelligent and educated people. The lack of security in Nigeria, the loss of life, rampant kidnappings, is destroying the image of Nigeria on the World stage. Nigeria lacks a real tourism industry, because there is a lack of security. Direct foreign investment, outside of the oil and gas industry, is severely limited because of the perceived risk that Nigeria has become. Insecurity is not a new thing in Nigeria. Homes in Nigeria are built like prisons, complete with high walls, steel doors and metal bars on the windows. No one in Ghana or Togo has to live like prisoners in their own homes the way Nigerians do. People in Nigeria are used to living in fear and insecurity. They are so used to it, that they no longer realize just how much fear they have’’
The Diaspora APC leader also made fresh case for proper intelligence gathering, outreach in the communities, where criminals and terrorists come from, in order to prevent further recruitment and social policy to help support young people and put them into positive alternative activities.
‘’The so-called “Giant of Africa”, is now being laughed at, and being described as a pig, wallowing in its own dirt and filth. This is unacceptable, and it has led to Nigerians that live abroad openly insulting the home country in front of outsiders. No Nigerian that lives abroad, no matter what tribe they are from, generally has anything good to say about Nigeria. It has become the norm to curse Nigeria. This is shameful for a Country with so much potential, to become a leading nation in the world. This has to do with insecurity, and the economy. For Nigeria to move ahead, in a world that is becoming ever more technologically advanced, Security has to be at the forefront of every Nigeria’s mind, both at home, and in the diaspora. It is the volatile security in Nigeria that acts as an impediment for people to return to Nigeria and contribute. All too often, we hear of victims, and it keeps getting worse. Just look at the full scale military attacks, killings and kidnappings of women and girls in the North of the Country. Look at the murder, kidnapping and robbery in the South of the country. This is unacceptable. But sadly, Nigerians are used to living with, and adapting to unacceptable conditions’’
She also tasked the security agencies on information sharing.
‘’There is a need for better information sharing between different agencies such as the Police and the military, and between different regions. There must be a network of correct information gathering, so that we know who the enemy is, how they are financed, who supports them, where they live, who they are related to, who they associate with. To destroy an enemy, you must know the enemy. There must be a shift in the mindset of security agents in Nigeria. The Police, military and others must become more motivated, and undertake more training in intelligence gathering, investigation and counter terrorism, so that they can perform their duties more effectively’’
She emphasized severe penalties for high level criminals, and terrorists, as well as those associated with them.
‘’There is need for punitive and financial penalties for anyone that supports any form of criminality and terrorism. Government must be bold and robust in labeling terrorists, armed robbers and kidnappers as what they are: They are enemies of every tribe and every person in Nigeria. They are enemies and need to be seen as such. The communities need to ostracize them. If the country’s economy is to grow, Nigeria needs security, if the population is to live freely. Nigeria needs security, if it is to be taken seriously as a leading nation in Africa, Nigeria needs security. If Nigeria’s security situation gets worse, while politicians look on, our country will not only be laughed at, but every Nigerian, of every tribe, will be looked down upon, as incompetent human beings, who cannot even live safely within our borders. Robust strategies must be employed to keep citizens safe. Anything less, will be failure, and spell doom for the nation and the citizens’’.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain advised those aspiring for political positions in 2023 to focus on the country’s security challenges.
‘’The agenda for any new administration must be robust and strategic. There must be competent information gathering and outreach for the disaffected communities that terrorists, kidnappers, and armed robbers come from. There must be stronger legislation to punish offenders and willingness by the government to boldly assert that groups that advocate violence against people or the state, through actions, words or symbols, are terrorists and criminals and they must be punished as such. Armed robbers and kidnappers must be targeted relentlessly’’
She also appealed to the electorate not to elect ineffective representatives in 2023
‘’Nigeria can win the battle of insecurity when the mindset shifts from it being a battle, to it being a war. There must be a war waged against insecurity and Nigerians must hold every single politician, police officer, and military officer accountable. The politicians must lead, and be held accountable for keeping citizens safe. If they fail to do this, then Nigerian citizens must be brave enough to ensure that they no longer elect ineffective representatives. Nigerians will continue to live like prisoners, if security is not made a core issue by the incoming government’’.
Stakeholders in the politics of the North-East geo-political zone on Thursday reacted to the spate of criticisms and outright falsehood against the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress
(APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, saying it was in bad faith.
The leaders described Omisore as a man of profound moral rectitude.
The leaders in a statement in Damaturu, capital of Yobe State, said influential Yoruba leaders should rise in condemnation of the uncomplimentary remarks on Omisore, crude propaganda and the obviously desperate moves to please his paymaster, a former South-South Governor and a major donor to the Nobel laureate’s organisation that twisted the minds of many young Nigerians most of whom are now adults regretting toeing the path of Prof Soyinka in their teenage years.
‘’The current posturing of Prof. Wole Soyinka is totally in bad taste and drips with malice .He is attacking Omisore on account of the inability of his benefactor to hijack the national leadership of the party, which he fears will deny the former South-South governor the opportunity to become the presidential candidate of the party without any positive track record of performance in governance.
The statement by the chairman of North-East Unity and Advancement Forum (NEUAF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, commended the APC National Secretary for his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s development and the challenging task of nation-building.
‘’Senator Omisore is a patriot, a thinker and a fighter for good causes’’
The statement cited Omisore for honesty, industry and patriotism.
The group also praised President Muhammadu Buhari and the esteemed members of the ruling party for electing Omisore the party’s National Secretary.
The statement emphasized Omisore’s rich and inspiring profile, meritorious services to the nation and humanity, peaceful disposition and gentility.
The leaders accused Soyinka of dabbling into politics, threatening thunder against Omisore, whilst encouraging mediocrity and protecting a former South-South governor for supporting him in the last ten years.
‘’We know the tactics of Wole Soyinka. He likes to grandstand as an independent man. Many believe he is speaking for the people, campaigning for good governance and quality leadership while the reverse is the case. There are many questions begging for answers in Soyinka’s relationship with the ex-South-South governor for anyone to take him seriously’’
‘’Wole Soyinka knows that his sponsor is a weakling who obviously finds himself where he doesn’t belong’’
They argued that Soyinka’s recent remark on Omisore was borne out of selfishness but warns that Nigeria is not for sale.
‘’The energy and vigour with which Soyinka undertook a fierce political crusade against the APC National Secretary left no one in doubt that his target was to divide the ruling party, draw Omisore into a controversy and then distract him’’
The leaders urged Soyinka to stop chasing shadows that would definitely not help the cause of a current minister and former governor in the South-South geo-political zone.
‘’We have watched in astonishment how Soyinka turned himself into such a burden to the former South-South governor’’
Wole Soyinka recently lashed out at Omisore on account of the choice of the ruling party to elect the former Osun State deputy governor its National Secretary.
‘’Wole Soyinka ought to be more decent with his choices of words in addressing Omisore and should not undermine the fact that his sycophancy might land him into trouble’’
South-South women drum support for Akpabio
South-South women on Friday described the threat to issue a warrant of arrest against Senator Godswill Akpabio as a ploy to coerce the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to toe an odd line and the Federal Government into accepting to pay for inflated, bogus and fictitious projects in the past.
‘’This is a threatening measure designed to retard the progress of the region, strip the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of the transparency qualities it had developed in the last two years and return it to its most corrupt days’’.
They also commended stakeholders in the Niger Delta region for joining hands with Akpabio to lift the region high.
In a statement in Asaba by the spokesperson of the South-South Women Political Front (SSWPF), Dr. Doris Ogba, the women described Akpabio as a transformational figure, towering statesman and a visionary hero.
They commended the former Akwa Ibom State governor for initiating programmes and projects that directly benefited the people in various areas such as security, health, education, roads, housing, electrification, transportation, agriculture and tourism
The well respected women applauded Akpabio for redirecting the region on to the path of development.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a thoughtful, decent and progressive fellow. His humility is boundless’’.
Particularly, the women scolded political detractors for throwing sand in the gears of the current administration to transform the region, making misleading statements and orchestrating a campaign of calumny against Akpabio, with a view to impugn his integrity.
The statement emphasized Akpabio’s politics of performance, virtue in waiting, deep appetite for change, rapid infrastructure development and peace in the Niger Delta region.
‘’The Wailing Women of the Niger Delta, The Integrity Friends for Truth and Peace Initiative (TIFPI) and others are spoilers’’ the statement added.
PRESS RELEASE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare; Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Demola Seriki; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, public office holders at federal and state levels on Sunday converge on Lagos to honour the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, with a novelty match in celebration of his 70th birthday.
The novelty match between ex-Super Eagles players and Team Lagos, which took place at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos was attended by former and present members of the National Assembly, Lagos State Executive Council, Lagos State House of Assembly and local government chairmen, as well as members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Lagos State APC executive members, among others.
The match, which was attended by Tinubu, who kicked off the ball, is part of the programmes organised by the Tinubu Support Group in conjunction with the Lagos State Government, to celebrate the APC National Leader’s 70th birthday, which comes up on Tuesday, March 29.
Former Super Eagles Striker, Victor Agali scored two goals for the ex-international team led by Austin Jay Jay Okocha to defeat the Team Lagos, which is made up of former players of Stationery Scores and other clubs in Lagos State.
Agali scored the first goal 10 minutes into the second half from a brilliant pass from Julius Aghahowa. Agali netted the second goal 12 minutes later through his head from a cross by Austin Okocha, who displayed brilliant dribbling skills during the match.
The ex-internationals team also included; Nwankwo Kanu, Peter Rufai, Ike Shorunmu, Taribo West, Garba Lawal, Mutiu Adepoju, Victor Ikpeba and Abiodun Obafemi, among others.
Team Lagos was captained by the Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Mudashiri Obasa. Other members of the team are Waidi Akanni, Godwin Okpara, Friday Ekpo, Sanni Doherty, Akeem Ogunlade, Wasiu Ipaye, Taiwo Oloyede, Yusuf Ayinla and Alhaji Gafar, among others.
Prior to the novelty match between the ex-international and Team Lagos, there was a football match between Team Abuja comprising members of the National Assembly and Team B, made up of members of the Lagos State Executive Council, House of Assembly and council chairmen.
The Team Manager for Team Abuja was a member of the House of Representatives, representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. James Faleke, while Team Lagos was led by the Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Tayo Ayinde.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
20 MARCH 2022
Press Release
Sunday, 20th March 2022.
OBA ELEGUSHI TO LEAD PRAYERS FOR NIGERIA, AS ELEGBA FESTIVAL HOLDS IN IKATE KINGDOM
Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, the king of Ikate-Elegushi kingdom will lead other prominent monarchs and Lagosians in offering prayers for the country, to seek divine intervention in the affairs of the nation.
The prayers will be part of activities at the Year 2022 Ejiwa Elegba Festival, an annual cultural and spiritual celebration of coastal communities in Lagos, holding at Ikate-Elegushi from 22nd – 28th March 2022.
In a release signed by the monarch’s spokesperson, Temitope Oyefeso, he quoted the monarch as saying the challenges confronting Nigerians in recent times requires divine intervention, even as the government at various levels continue to proffer solutions to theses socio-economic issues.
He said Oba Elegushi would be joined by other prominent monarchs from Lagos and other states, to offer special prayers for the country, her leaders and the citizens at the festival.
The Ejiwa Elegba Festival, which is an annual event of coastal communities, is held in five areas of the state. This year’s celebration, which started from Iddo and later Iru kingdom, will move to Ikate-Elegushi from the 22nd of March 2022, while the celebration will also be held in Ijora and Ilashe at later dates.
Signed:
Temitope Oyefeso
Special Assistant, Public Affairs to His Majesty
—
‘Tope Oyefeso (Mr.)
Special Assistant, Public Affairs
Office of The Elegushi of Ikateland
08023839100
March 20, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Celebrates Ugwuanyi at 58
…Says He is a Forthright, Consummate Administrator
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) celebrates the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, as he marks his 58th birthday.
Gburugburu, as Governor Ugwuanyi is fondly called, is an outstanding statesman, consummate legislator and excellent administrator, who continues to make innumerable contributions towards the unity, stability and development of our dear nation.
Through the years, Rt. Hon. Ugwuanyi has distinguished himself as a very courageous leader, an exceptionally humble, honest, forthright and humane administrator, whose commitment to the welfare and development of the people is unparalleled.
As a seasoned technocrat, former member of the House of Representatives and now a two-term governor of Enugu State, Governor Ugwuanyi remains a shining example of commitment to duty and patriotism to our dear fatherland.
Our Party is extremely proud of Governor Ugwuanyi’s outstanding achievements in human capital and infrastructural developments in all critical sectors of life, with which he has transformed Enugu State in the last seven years.
With Governor Ugwuanyi, Enugu State is indeed in the hands of God. This is evident in the peaceful disposition of Governor Ugwuanyi who ensures the harmonious co-existence of the peoples of Enugu State by guaranteeing even development across the State.
Futhermore, the PDP appreciates Governor Ugwuanyi’s roles with other leaders towards the stability, successes and development of our great Party.
The PDP deeply appreciates Governor Ugwuanyi’s roles towards the success of the 2021 National Convention of our Party as well as his unwavering dedication toward PDP’s mission to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
The PDP family heartily congratulates Governor Ugwuanyi on this auspicious occasion and pray to God to Grant him many more years to His Glory and service to humanity.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
March 20, 2022
Press Statement
Fuel Crisis: APC is Kneeling on the Necks of Nigerians- PDP
…Slams Buhari for Abdication of Duties
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) cautions the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration to note that its unrelenting culture of arrogance, impunity and criminal pillaging of our national resources is akin to kneeling on the necks of Nigerians.
The PDP warns that there is a limit to what the people can bear under an administration that remains arrogant, inhumane, unconcerned and insensitive to their plights occasioned by its misrule.
Is it not an unpardonable dereliction of duty that while the nation is in turmoil and agonizing under a collapsed national grid, protracted fuel crisis, distressed aviation sector, plummeting currency, crippled production and commercial activities, President Muhammadu Buhari remains aloof and “absent” as always?
The failure by President Buhari, who also doubles as the Minister of Petroleum Resources to take immediate action, other than the snobbish stance by his Presidency that “heavens will not fall” because of fuel scarcity amounts to daring Nigerians to do their worse.
It is often said that when a government abdicates its responsibility to the citizens at whose pleasure it should serve, then that government is complicit in the suffering of its people and a beneficiary of their woes.
Sadly today, thousands of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises; the drivers of the economy are folding up daily, industries are relocating to neighboring countries, universities are on strike, the aviation sector is on the brink of collapse, our Railway is tottering to a halt due to lack of diesel, police are threatening to go on strike, insecurity is on the rise due to the collapse of the informal economic sector, yet Mr. President had time to holiday in England!
If President Buhari could personally communicate on issues that concern his fizzling party, the APC, while in England, it is inconceivable that he failed and neglected, as always, to attend to life discounting experiences and pains encountered by Nigerians daily by the thoughtless and inhumane policies of his government.
President Buhari needs to be reminded of his duty to Nigerians, to in the least, show some empathy, competence and concern as our country rapidly drifts towards a looming precipice. The frustration in the country is already degenerating into a nationwide restiveness that may result to the breakdown of Law and Order if allowed to fester.
With petrol now selling between N400 to N500 per liter, diesel at over N800 per liter, kerosine at over N750 and aviation fuel at N670 per liter, millions of businesses, employments and sources of livelihood have collapsed in both urban and rural areas resulting in acute hardship and widespread social tension across the country.
Our Party fears that the situation is getting to a boiling point and can trigger a nationwide agitation that might be worse than the October 2020 EndSARS if not addressed immediately.
President Buhari must take responsibility for the criminal racketeering in his government by APC leaders which has led to the crippling of the economy under his watch. He should stop abdicating his duties by sending his aides to issue wild claims, fake promises and noncommittal apologies on the abysmal failures of his administration.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS GOV IFEANYI UGWUANYI OF ENUGU STATE AT 58
President Muhammadu Buhari joins the Government and indigenes of Enugu State in celebrating with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who turns 58, March 20, 2022.
President Buhari felicitates the former lawmaker, who served in the House of Representatives for 12 years, before his election as Governor in 2015, for providing visionary leadership, making Enugu an attraction for tourists and investors by promoting peace, stability and unity.
The President notes the foresight, wisdom and balance the governor brings to national debates and policies, elevating love for the nation above personal ambition, and diligently pursuing the greater good of his people and entire South East region.
As Governor Ugwuanyi, better known as “Gburugburu” turns 58, the President prays for long life, good health and more opportunities to keep serving the country.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 20, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI FELICITATES AGUMA BASSA, BENIN, BAKO EBIREDELU DOGWO AT 57
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates His Royal Highness (HRH), Alhaji Bako Ebiredelu Dogwo, Aguma Bassa, Benin, on his 57th birthday, March 20, 2022, rejoicing with the royal father for service to his people and nation.
President Buhari notes the worthy contributions of the traditional ruler, who is the Coordinator General, Bassa Traditional Rulers and Elites, to peace, development and prosperity of his domain, particularly the attention to civic responsibilities, education and entrepreneurship.
As the Aguma Bassa turns 57, the President salutes his dedication, commitment and resolve of pursuing the larger dream of a united and peaceful country by sharing his wise counsels with leaders and followers.
President Buhari prays for the wellbeing of the royal father.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 19, 2022
SDP suffers defection as Akpoti-Uduaghan, supporters join PDP
Key players in the politics of North Central on Saturday described Kogi State Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the 2019 governorship election, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as an astute consensus builder, a great mobilizer and prudent manager of human and material resources.
The Kogi State politician and lawyer recently joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
‘’Politics is all about service. We believe, very fervently, that you have so much to offer to Nigeria, particularly Kogi State in the years ahead’’
The leaders applauded the Kogi State politician for making the hardest and wisest political decision.
They urged Akpoti-Uduaghan, party supporters and well-wishers to squarely face the 2023 elections and ensure the PDP records victory in Kogi State.
‘’Akpoti-Uduaghan must join forces with other PDP chieftains to consume the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State’’.
In a press statement issued on Saturday in Lokoja and signed by the Chairman of North-Central Assembly, Alhaji Yinusa Suleiman, the leaders described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s entry into the PDP as a turning point for the opposition in Kogi State.
‘’It is indeed a step in the right direction’’
The statement emphasized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s contributions to Nigeria, her humanitarian values and superlative drive for service to fatherland.
Particularly, the leaders praised the PDP for making Nigeria a significant voice in the international community, improving the nation’s foreign reserves, paying off debts and exiting from the London and Paris Clubs of creditors.
They also commended the nation’s leading opposition party for the country’s telecommunication revolution, massive inflow of foreign investments, re-invigoration of the middle-class and massive improvement in the area of education, infrastructure, security, health, tourism and finance.
‘’We welcome Chief Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan to PDP’’
Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to contribute to PDP’s victory and also bring her vision for the rapid development of Kogi State to fruition.